Two men detained as police hunt for Thailand bombing culprits

Two men have reportedly been detained by police for questioning in connection witha number of blasts that targeted popular tourist destinations in the resort town of Hua Hin, around 200km south of Bangkok in Thailand.

At least four people were killed and dozens injured in the blasts which hit five separate provinces on Thursday and Friday, which authorities have attributed to “local sabotage” as opposed to a terror attack.

Police Superintendent Sarawut Tankul told Reuters news agency the men were questioned on Friday over the Hua Hin attacks because CCTV captured them in the area “before, during and after the bombings”.

The Australian government has warned Australians in Thailand to avoid crowded places and exercise caution in the wake of explosions.

While the men have been detained, deputy national police spokesman Piyapan Pingmuang told AFP on Saturday morning that there had been “no arrests yet” as police search for a clear motive.

Australian Justice Minister Michael Keenan, who was in Thailand earlier this year to discuss ways to combat extremism, said there had been no claims of responsibility as yet and it would be "premature to speculate on the identity of the perpetrators".

The attacks came ahead of a celebration of the Queen’s birthday, and days after a referendum approved a new constitution giving more power to the military Government.

Hua Hin is an upscale resort town about 200 kilometres (125 miles) south of Bangkok, popular with both local and foreign tourists.

It is also home to a palace for years frequented by Thailand's revered King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest reigning monarch.

(Jonathon Small) ()

The 88-year-old is currently hospitalised in Bangkok for a myriad of health complications.

The explosions hit Hua Hin ahead of a long holiday weekend in the kingdom, with many people travelling as Thais prepare to celebrate Queen Sirikit's 84th birthday on Friday.

Thailand's reputation as the "Land of Smiles" has suffered in recent years amid frequent road accidents, crimes against foreigners and political unrest, but tourists continue to flock to the its sandy beaches and famed temples.

The kingdom is expecting a record 32 million visitors in 2016, with the tourism industry a bright spot accounting for at least a tenth of the otherwise lacklustre economy.

Australians concerned for the welfare of family and friends who may be in the area should first attempt to contact them directly. If you are unable to contact them and continue to have concerns you should contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 within Australia or +61 6261 3305 from overseas.